Quincy Derby: Empowering the Super Kids and Inspiring the Community

The Quincy Derby, a longstanding tradition in the city, has evolved beyond a mere race to become a transformative event that celebrates the resilience and potential of individuals with intellectual and physical disabilities. At the heart of this remarkable story is the Super Kids division, which has captured the hearts and minds of the community, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of all who participate.

Unlocking the Limitless Potential of the Super Kids

Embracing the Super Kids' Passion and Determination

The Quincy Derby's Super Kids division has become a beacon of hope and inspiration, empowering individuals with diverse abilities to showcase their talents and defy expectations. Former Quincy Notre Dame wrestling coach and longtime staffer at the Jacksonville School for the Visually Impaired, Ken Mansell, eloquently captured the essence of this transformative event. "The kids loved this experience, and they loved being referred to as 'Super Kids,'" Mansell shared, his words resonating with the appreciative crowd. "All our kids have talked about since participating is the Quincy Derby."Mansell's insights shed light on the profound impact the derby has had on the lives of these remarkable individuals. For many, the Quincy Derby represented their first foray into a competitive event, a chance to step out of their comfort zones and embrace the thrill of the race. "Some of our kids had never been involved in this kind of activity," Mansell acknowledged, underscoring the significance of the derby in providing these participants with a platform to explore their capabilities and discover their inner strength.

Fostering a Sense of Belonging and Empowerment

The Quincy Derby's Super Kids division has not only ignited a passion for competition but has also cultivated a profound sense of belonging and empowerment. Mansell's words painted a vivid picture of the transformative impact, as he shared that the event has made the Super Kids feel "as if the sky is the limit for them." This sentiment speaks volumes about the derby's ability to shatter preconceptions and redefine the boundaries of what is possible for individuals with intellectual or physical disabilities.The Quincy Derby has become a unifying force, bringing together participants from across West-Central and Northern Illinois, as well as Northeast and Western Missouri. This diversity has enriched the event, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie that extends far beyond the race itself. "This event is more than a race," remarked Tony Cornett, whose son, Michael, a former Super Kids champion, was inducted into the derby's Hall of Fame. "It touches countless people in numerous ways."

Celebrating the Achievements of the Super Kids

The Quincy Derby's awards luncheon, held at The Commons annex of Madison Park Christian Church, provided a platform to recognize the remarkable achievements of the Super Kids. Champions in the four Super Kids divisions, as well as the Super Stock, Stock, and Masters Elite divisions, were celebrated for their hard work, determination, and unwavering spirit.The event's ability to inspire and uplift the participants was evident in the words of the attendees. Mansell's address, filled with heartfelt appreciation, underscored the profound impact the derby has had on the lives of the Super Kids. "The Quincy Derby is making a huge impact on these kids' lives," he declared, his voice brimming with pride and emotion.

Expanding the Reach and Impact of the Quincy Derby

The Quincy Derby's significance extends far beyond the confines of the race itself. As the largest independent such event in the nation and the second-largest overall, the derby has become a beacon of hope and inspiration for communities across the country. With a record 237 entries this year, the Quincy Derby continues to grow, attracting participants from near and far.The event's organizers, the Quincy Optimist Club, have set their sights on an ambitious goal: to make the Quincy Derby the largest in the nation by "2026 or 2027." This vision speaks to the unwavering commitment of the club to not only maintain the derby's legacy but to expand its reach and impact, ensuring that the transformative power of the Super Kids division is shared with an ever-growing audience.As the 86th Akron derby, the event's national counterpart, prepares to welcome more than 300 entries, including racers from Canada and Japan, the Quincy Derby stands poised to cement its position as a premier destination for soap box racing enthusiasts and advocates of inclusivity alike.

Inspiring the Next Generation of Champions

The Quincy Derby has not only empowered the Super Kids but has also fostered a new generation of champions. Kalli Mullen and Elizabeth Boudreau were recognized as this year's derby champions, with Mullen making history as the first back-to-back Super Stock champion and the first racer to win two major titles in the same year.Mullen's remarkable achievements have captured the attention of the community, and her determination to return in 2025 to challenge the event's all-time victory leader, Jayden Vogel, has only added to the excitement and anticipation surrounding the Quincy Derby. With a career record of 61-17 and a winning percentage of .783, Mullen's prowess on the track has cemented her place as a true force to be reckoned with.The Quincy Derby's ability to inspire and nurture the next generation of champions is a testament to its enduring legacy. As more than 2,300 racers have been involved since the derby's inception, the event continues to leave an indelible mark on the lives of all who participate, creating a tapestry of memories and achievements that will be cherished for generations to come.